I haven’t eaten a can of spaghettios in probably ten years. And I can’t say I want to. But I’m always looking for lunch ideas, and when I spotted this recipe from Nikki over at Pennies On a Platter I thought I’d give it a try. I’m so glad I did! We loved it! Thank you Nikki! Here’s my version.

Brown ground beef and drain. Cook the pasta according to package directions.

Meanwhile, heat the oil in a dutch oven or large saute pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add the tomato sauce, water, tomato paste, salt, pepper, sugar and butter. Stir and continue to heat until the butter is melted. Slowly stir in the milk, then turn the heat to low. Add ground beef. Simmer at low heat for 10 minutes. Stir in the cheese and heat until melted. Add the pasta and combine. Enjoy!

Notes

The original recipe called for only 1/2 pound of pasta, but there was plenty of sauce for a full pound of pasta.

The original recipe didn’t call for meat, but I used it. For fun it can be made into little mini-meatballs!